The bringing of the art of the terrarium is generally credited with a
man called
Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward. This came about with the publishing
of his book called "On the Growth of Plants in Closely Glazed Cases"
which he published in 1842.
During the Victorian Era and predominantly in England terrariums or
"Wardian Cases" became very popular and many people kept them in their
homes. But over the course of decades the practice fell in decline and
in todays world they have made a bit of a comeback but have never
reached the every day popularity that they had achieved in the days of
Ward.
So . . . if you don't know, a terrarium is a mini indoor garden that requires low maintenance and
is therefore perfect for people that don't have the time to take care
of them - that's ME!
1. Gather your supplies.
- a clear glass container
- gravel / river rocks
- activated charcoal
- potting soil
- plants
2. Clean the glass container.
Wash it well with soapy water and rinse it completely to remove any soapy residue.
3. Pour a 1-inch layer of gravel on the bottom.
This will provide better drainage. You can use a funnel or a cone of
paper to guide the gravel so it does not harm the sides of the
container.
4. Pour in a half-inch layer of activated charcoal.
The charcoal filters the air and helps to prevent odors in an enclosed environment.
5.
Add a 2-3 inch layer of potting soil and pack it down loosely.
6.
Take the plants out of their pots and tease the roots gently apart, removing the excess soil.
7.
Arrange the plants in any way you like.
Remember that the plants will grow, so choose small ones and leave some space between them.
8.
Water your plants lightly.
Use a watering can that has a long spout so as to water directly at the roots of your plants.
Voila! Enjoy!
